Cornus stolonifera 'Flaviramea' – A Radiant Yellow-Stemmed Dogwood for Year-Round Appeal
Cornus stolonifera 'Flaviramea', commonly known as the Yellow-Twig Dogwood, is a stunning deciduous shrub that captivates with its brilliant yellow stems and vibrant seasonal interest. This cultivar of the native Cornus stolonifera adds dynamic color to the garden, from its springtime white flowers to its striking yellow twigs in winter. 'Flaviramea' is perfect for borders, hedges, or as a specimen plant, where its bold color contrasts beautifully with other plants throughout the year.
Seasonal Beauty & Growth
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Spring: In spring, 'Flaviramea' blooms with clusters of creamy white flowers, which are small but charming. The vibrant yellow stems start to show through as the leaves emerge, creating a stunning contrast between the new growth and the stems.
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Summer: During the warmer months, the plant's green leaves take center stage, providing a lush backdrop to its yellow stems. The flowers give way to small, white berries, which attract birds and wildlife.
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Autumn: As the weather cools, the leaves turn rich shades of red and purple, providing an exciting splash of color that complements the yellow stems.
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Winter: In winter, the true beauty of 'Flaviramea' comes to life, as the plant’s vivid yellow stems stand out against the winter landscape. The bright stems offer a cheerful pop of color when much of the garden may be dormant.
Structure & Form
Cornus stolonifera 'Flaviramea' has an upright, spreading habit, reaching a height of around 1.5–2.5 meters and a spread of 2–2.5 meters. It has dense, multiple stems that give it a bushy, full appearance, making it a great choice for a hedge or as a feature plant in the garden. The bright yellow stems are especially striking in winter, and their color provides a strong contrast against the green foliage of other plants. The plant’s compact form makes it well-suited for smaller gardens, yet its vibrant color can stand out in larger spaces too.
Perfect for Various Landscapes
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Mixed Borders: This dogwood provides year-round interest in mixed borders, where its colorful stems contrast with the surrounding plants, creating visual interest throughout the seasons.
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Wildlife Gardens: The white flowers attract bees, and the berries serve as a food source for birds, making 'Flaviramea' a great addition to wildlife-friendly gardens.
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Winter Gardens: 'Flaviramea' is especially effective in winter landscapes, where its yellow stems can brighten up otherwise dull garden beds. It adds a pop of color and visual structure when many other plants are dormant.
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Hedges & Screens: Planting 'Flaviramea' as part of a hedge or screen will create a colorful, dense barrier that offers seasonal beauty and shelter for wildlife.
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Contemporary Gardens: Its vibrant stems are a perfect match for modern garden designs, adding a bold, architectural element that stands out in minimalist landscapes.
Growing Conditions & Care
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Position: 'Flaviramea' thrives in full sun to partial shade. While it will tolerate some shade, it is in full sun that the plant will exhibit the brightest and most vibrant yellow stems.
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Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil and will perform best in slightly acidic to neutral soil. It is adaptable to a variety of soil types, including clay or sandy soils, as long as they are kept moist.
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Hardiness: Hardy, 'Flaviramea' is a cold-hardy plant that can withstand harsh winters. It is perfect for colder climates where the yellow stems will provide a cheerful contrast to the surrounding winter landscape.
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Maintenance: This dogwood is relatively low-maintenance. Regular pruning is recommended to remove any dead or damaged stems and to shape the plant. Cutting the plant back in early spring can help encourage new growth and maintain its compact form.
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Watering: Like most dogwoods, 'Flaviramea' prefers consistently moist soil. It can tolerate wet conditions but should not be planted in areas that become waterlogged. Make sure to water regularly during dry spells, especially in the first few years as it establishes itself.
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Fertilization: 'Flaviramea' does not require heavy fertilization but will benefit from an annual application of balanced fertilizer in early spring to support vigorous growth and vibrant color.
Why Choose Cornus stolonifera 'Flaviramea'?
Cornus stolonifera 'Flaviramea' is a standout shrub that provides exceptional visual interest all year long. From its stunning yellow stems in winter to its lush green summer foliage, this dogwood adds color and texture to any garden. Its wildlife-friendly features, such as attracting pollinators and offering berries for birds, make it a versatile and eco-friendly choice. Its ease of care, adaptability to a range of conditions, and year-round appeal make it an excellent option for gardeners looking to brighten up their landscapes with minimal maintenance.
Perfect Plant Combinations
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Perennials: Combine with perennials like Daylilies or Rudbeckia for a colorful contrast against the yellow stems.
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Grasses: Pair with ornamental grasses like Panicum virgatum or Carex for texture and movement, which will complement the plant's upright form.
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Shrubs: Plant alongside other dogwoods like Cornus 'Baton Rouge' or Viburnum for added seasonal color and interest.
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Groundcovers: Underplant with groundcovers like Lamium or Ajuga to provide a soft, low-maintenance carpet that contrasts with the upright growth of 'Flaviramea'.
Conclusion
Cornus stolonifera 'Flaviramea' is an eye-catching and versatile shrub that brings vibrant color, texture, and seasonal interest to the garden. From its bright yellow stems in winter to its changing foliage and berries in spring and fall, this dogwood offers year-round appeal. Whether used as a specimen, part of a mixed border, or in a wildlife-friendly garden, 'Flaviramea' is sure to bring beauty and structure to any landscape. Its low-maintenance nature and adaptability to various growing conditions make it an ideal choice for gardeners seeking a colorful and easy-to-care-for shrub.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.